Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Branford, CT

Photo of Tricia Mignosa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
Tricia Mignosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Branford, CT 06405
Not currently providing evaluations for or treating adult ADHD. I do not treat children or adolescents. Tricia is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in outpatient psychopharmacologic management of adults. She is graduate of Yale University School of Nursing. Prior to becoming an APRN, Tricia obtained a Master's degree in Social Work from Fordham University. She offers medication consultations and evaluations, and ongoing medication management for a range of issues such as anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD.
Not currently providing evaluations for or treating adult ADHD. I do not treat children or adolescents. Tricia is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in outpatient psychopharmacologic management of adults. She is graduate of Yale University School of Nursing. Prior to becoming an APRN, Tricia obtained a Master's degree in Social Work from Fordham University. She offers medication consultations and evaluations, and ongoing medication management for a range of issues such as anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD.
(475) 253-3826 View (475) 253-3826
Photo of Dr. Hamilton Gaiani, Psychiatrist in Branford, CT
Dr. Hamilton Gaiani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Branford, CT 06405  (Online Only)
As a Yale trained Board-Certified Adult & Addiction Psychiatrist, I provide only the highest quality and evidence-based mental health treatment. I work with all mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, OCD, etc. I also specialize in helping with alcohol/drug issues, ADHD, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I have an extensive knowledge of the latest research and treatments and am a strong advocate for the patients I work with. Treatment includes medication management and an optional therapy component. You may also request comprehensive evaluations, and if appropriate, addiction med management including suboxone.
As a Yale trained Board-Certified Adult & Addiction Psychiatrist, I provide only the highest quality and evidence-based mental health treatment. I work with all mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, OCD, etc. I also specialize in helping with alcohol/drug issues, ADHD, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I have an extensive knowledge of the latest research and treatments and am a strong advocate for the patients I work with. Treatment includes medication management and an optional therapy component. You may also request comprehensive evaluations, and if appropriate, addiction med management including suboxone.
(475) 263-3189 View (475) 263-3189
Photo of Stéphane P Clermont, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
Stéphane P Clermont
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Branford, CT 06405  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patient. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
Accepting New Patient. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
(860) 431-3331 View (860) 431-3331
Photo of Fredo J Clermont, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
Fredo J Clermont
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Branford, CT 06405
Accepting New Patient on a limited basis. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
Accepting New Patient on a limited basis. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
(860) 901-0520 View (860) 901-0520
Photo of NorthPoint Psychiatric Consultants, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
NorthPoint Psychiatric Consultants, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Branford, CT 06405
We have experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues ( Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, PTSD, Bipolar, Depression including postpartum depression.
Our group practice consists of Board-Certified providers. Our extensive inpatient and outpatient work history providing care to clients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to our ability to assess each client from a holistic view and provide the best evidence-based recommendations. We are Currently ACCEPTING new patients on a limited basis for psychiatric evaluation. To request an appointment please visit our website and fill out the form (https://www.northpointpsychiatry.com/contact-us ).
We have experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues ( Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, PTSD, Bipolar, Depression including postpartum depression.
Our group practice consists of Board-Certified providers. Our extensive inpatient and outpatient work history providing care to clients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to our ability to assess each client from a holistic view and provide the best evidence-based recommendations. We are Currently ACCEPTING new patients on a limited basis for psychiatric evaluation. To request an appointment please visit our website and fill out the form (https://www.northpointpsychiatry.com/contact-us ).
(860) 854-1764 View (860) 854-1764
Photo of Julianne Steahr, Psychiatric Nurse in Branford, CT
Julianne Steahr
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP, ANP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Branford, CT 06405  (Online Only)
Hello, I practice as a certified APRN in Psychiatry and Primary Care. My current focus is on the treatment of psychiatric illnesses in adults that are motivated to maintain or regain mental and emotional wellness. I prescribe medications for the treatment of Acute and Chronic Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD, ASD, PTSD, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, Pre and Post Partum, Sleep disorders, Thyroid and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. If you are seeking an initial assessment or continued care for a diagnosed condition or a reevaluation, my goal is to provide you comprehensive, wholistic care to regain or maintain wellness.
Hello, I practice as a certified APRN in Psychiatry and Primary Care. My current focus is on the treatment of psychiatric illnesses in adults that are motivated to maintain or regain mental and emotional wellness. I prescribe medications for the treatment of Acute and Chronic Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD, ASD, PTSD, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, Pre and Post Partum, Sleep disorders, Thyroid and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. If you are seeking an initial assessment or continued care for a diagnosed condition or a reevaluation, my goal is to provide you comprehensive, wholistic care to regain or maintain wellness.
(860) 458-4828 View (860) 458-4828
Photo of Dayna Leigh Giordano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
Dayna Leigh Giordano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Branford, CT 06405
My realization from working with mental health, addiction & chronic pain plays an enormous role in my patient's quality of life. I combine my knowledge with strict protocols to keep my patients free of pain without the stigma of addiction. I am also looking at the most innovative new treatments for treatment resistant depression (Esketamine and ketamine troches) and Buprenorphine for chronic pain, Alpha-stim for anxiety, depression, & insomnia and NextWave device for chronic debilitating pelvic floor pain. Call for evaluation today! Open Mon-Thursday 10-6 pm. daynagiordanoaprn@gmail.com. Office 203-481-5556 fax 203-481-5553.
My realization from working with mental health, addiction & chronic pain plays an enormous role in my patient's quality of life. I combine my knowledge with strict protocols to keep my patients free of pain without the stigma of addiction. I am also looking at the most innovative new treatments for treatment resistant depression (Esketamine and ketamine troches) and Buprenorphine for chronic pain, Alpha-stim for anxiety, depression, & insomnia and NextWave device for chronic debilitating pelvic floor pain. Call for evaluation today! Open Mon-Thursday 10-6 pm. daynagiordanoaprn@gmail.com. Office 203-481-5556 fax 203-481-5553.
(203) 481-5556 View (203) 481-5556
Photo of Ryan Dillon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
Ryan Dillon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Branford, CT 06405
I take a safe, comfortable, and multifaceted approach towards treatment. I have experience and have been trained in family psychiatry. Therefore, I treat all ages and populations. My primary area of focus is that of diagnostic evaluation and psychiatric medication management. However, I believe that psychotherapy is an essential part of treatment. I will provide this type of services if I feel I can help! If not, I will refer you to the appropriate therapist. Accordingly, communicating and involving treatment from other providers and "looking at the big picture" is essential!
I take a safe, comfortable, and multifaceted approach towards treatment. I have experience and have been trained in family psychiatry. Therefore, I treat all ages and populations. My primary area of focus is that of diagnostic evaluation and psychiatric medication management. However, I believe that psychotherapy is an essential part of treatment. I will provide this type of services if I feel I can help! If not, I will refer you to the appropriate therapist. Accordingly, communicating and involving treatment from other providers and "looking at the big picture" is essential!
(203) 433-2550 View (203) 433-2550
Photo of Jay Seigel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
Jay Seigel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Branford, CT 06405
Jay Seigel has worked in clinical, academic and leadership capacities to improve the quality of life of his clients with addiction and mental health disorders. Jay has treated thousands of Clients in his private practice and countless impaired healthcare professionals with great success. Jay's goal of continually identifying and employing the most effective and innovative clinical treatment for his clients. Jay has a rarely found expertise utilizing evidence-based practice for work in insight oriented psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Jay is committed to collaborating with his Clients and their multidisciplinary providers to empower them to establish sustained recovery.
Jay Seigel has worked in clinical, academic and leadership capacities to improve the quality of life of his clients with addiction and mental health disorders. Jay has treated thousands of Clients in his private practice and countless impaired healthcare professionals with great success. Jay's goal of continually identifying and employing the most effective and innovative clinical treatment for his clients. Jay has a rarely found expertise utilizing evidence-based practice for work in insight oriented psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Jay is committed to collaborating with his Clients and their multidisciplinary providers to empower them to establish sustained recovery.
(203) 717-4433 View (203) 717-4433
Photo of Rory Condon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
Rory Condon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Branford, CT 06405
Rory Condon APRN is a board-certified lifespan psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. He has been active in mental health care for over a decade in a variety of different patient centered roles. Rory's previous professional experience has been with individuals across the spectrum of psychiatric care from those requiring acute stabilization to ongoing maintenance care. He worked at Yale Psychiatric Hospital, the Yale Crisis Intervention Unit, and High Watch Recovery Center among other settings. Rory received the Outstanding Newcomer Award from Yale New Haven Health System, being named one of the best APRNs hired in 2018.
Rory Condon APRN is a board-certified lifespan psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. He has been active in mental health care for over a decade in a variety of different patient centered roles. Rory's previous professional experience has been with individuals across the spectrum of psychiatric care from those requiring acute stabilization to ongoing maintenance care. He worked at Yale Psychiatric Hospital, the Yale Crisis Intervention Unit, and High Watch Recovery Center among other settings. Rory received the Outstanding Newcomer Award from Yale New Haven Health System, being named one of the best APRNs hired in 2018.
(203) 580-6483 View (203) 580-6483
Photo of Elisabeth Maryke Kressley, Psychiatrist in Branford, CT
Elisabeth Maryke Kressley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Branford, CT 06405
I am Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, and Yale trained Adult psychiatrist. I enjoy treating all ages of people from as young as 3 thru adulthood. I treat ADHD, Depression Anxiety disorders along with behavioral disorders in childhood. I also treat adults, families and couples in addition to individuals with medication and or therapy.
I am Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, and Yale trained Adult psychiatrist. I enjoy treating all ages of people from as young as 3 thru adulthood. I treat ADHD, Depression Anxiety disorders along with behavioral disorders in childhood. I also treat adults, families and couples in addition to individuals with medication and or therapy.
(860) 544-5856 View (860) 544-5856

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PCCN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06503
At SMPsychotherapy and Counseling Services, we provide compassionate therapy and medication management services to individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar, and other mental health conditions.
Have you tried medications for mental health conditions without success? Do you feel your medication prescriber doesn’t spend enough time with you? You want someone who will take a holistic approach when prescribing your mental health medications and listen to your experience and concerns about side effects. You want to manage your mental health conditions and get back to building the life you want. What if you could find a mental health practice that combines best practices in medication management with comprehensive therapy services? We’d be honored to help you achieve mental wellness.
At SMPsychotherapy and Counseling Services, we provide compassionate therapy and medication management services to individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar, and other mental health conditions.
Have you tried medications for mental health conditions without success? Do you feel your medication prescriber doesn’t spend enough time with you? You want someone who will take a holistic approach when prescribing your mental health medications and listen to your experience and concerns about side effects. You want to manage your mental health conditions and get back to building the life you want. What if you could find a mental health practice that combines best practices in medication management with comprehensive therapy services? We’d be honored to help you achieve mental wellness.
(203) 769-9298 View (203) 769-9298
Photo of Shoreline Wellness Center and Outreach, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
Shoreline Wellness Center and Outreach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
West Haven, CT 06516
Shoreline Wellness Center is a behavioral mental health practice conveniently located in the center of West Haven, CT just one block from the West Haven Green. We have a team of three Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioners led by Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Brandi Krassler, specializing in patients across the lifespan suffering from bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, conduct disorders, PTSD, and more. Dr. Sam Hawley, who heads the team, is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and APRN consultant who has several specialty trainings including disaster relief, grief, autism, pediatrics, and more.
Shoreline Wellness Center is a behavioral mental health practice conveniently located in the center of West Haven, CT just one block from the West Haven Green. We have a team of three Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioners led by Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Brandi Krassler, specializing in patients across the lifespan suffering from bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, conduct disorders, PTSD, and more. Dr. Sam Hawley, who heads the team, is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and APRN consultant who has several specialty trainings including disaster relief, grief, autism, pediatrics, and more.
(203) 896-8307 View (203) 896-8307
Photo of Steve Atkins, Psychiatrist in Branford, CT
Steve Atkins
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06501  (Online Only)
He particularly enjoys working with patients dealing with life or role transitions, older adults, and patients with bipolar or other affective disorders.
Dr. Atkins is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board-certified in adult psychiatry and has been in practice for the past 2 years. Dr. Atkins has focused his practice primarily on medication management. He combines medication management with a therapeutic style that is a blend of supportive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. While Dr. Atkins is trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques, he works collaboratively with therapists and may recommend their inclusion as part of your treatment team depending on your individualized treatment plan.
He particularly enjoys working with patients dealing with life or role transitions, older adults, and patients with bipolar or other affective disorders.
Dr. Atkins is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board-certified in adult psychiatry and has been in practice for the past 2 years. Dr. Atkins has focused his practice primarily on medication management. He combines medication management with a therapeutic style that is a blend of supportive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. While Dr. Atkins is trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques, he works collaboratively with therapists and may recommend their inclusion as part of your treatment team depending on your individualized treatment plan.
(475) 242-8531 View (475) 242-8531
Photo of John T Palma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
John T Palma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
I'm a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner that likes to take the appropriate time to get to know the needs and objectives of my clients. I specialize in adults but will see children 13 and older depending on the case. I treat individuals suffering from a variety of conditions, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. I value the input of those I work with and through collaboration we will achieve the best possible outcome.
I'm a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner that likes to take the appropriate time to get to know the needs and objectives of my clients. I specialize in adults but will see children 13 and older depending on the case. I treat individuals suffering from a variety of conditions, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. I value the input of those I work with and through collaboration we will achieve the best possible outcome.
(203) 404-6074 View (203) 404-6074
Photo of Carrie Fijal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
Carrie Fijal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
West Haven, CT 06516  (Online Only)
We treat anxiety, bipolar, depression, OCD, and even behavioral issues for children as young as 10+.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, divorce, eating disorders, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
We treat anxiety, bipolar, depression, OCD, and even behavioral issues for children as young as 10+.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, divorce, eating disorders, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
(475) 472-9579 View (475) 472-9579
Photo of Rivka Levin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
Rivka Levin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511  (Online Only)
I'm an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to providing comprehensive mental health care to help you reach your full potential. I offer medication management and holistic interventions for children and adults with mental health concerns including depression, anxiety and panic disorders, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. At my practice, Oasis Psychiatric, we take pride in our personalized and compassionate approach to care.
I'm an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to providing comprehensive mental health care to help you reach your full potential. I offer medication management and holistic interventions for children and adults with mental health concerns including depression, anxiety and panic disorders, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. At my practice, Oasis Psychiatric, we take pride in our personalized and compassionate approach to care.
(203) 208-9515 View (203) 208-9515
Photo of Barbara Stoudmire, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
Barbara Stoudmire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
There has been an increase in those suffering from anxiety and depression, especially after COVID. We watched in fear as the world slipped into a pandemic. I want you to know you are not alone! There are many sufferings from trauma related to a bad relationship, bullying or past abuse. Again, you are not alone! Have you been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or ADHD and have been struggling to manage your symptoms? I am here to help. Regardless of age or diagnosis everyone deserves peace of mind and a little understanding. I believe everyone deserves compassionate and empathetic mental health care. Let me help you.
There has been an increase in those suffering from anxiety and depression, especially after COVID. We watched in fear as the world slipped into a pandemic. I want you to know you are not alone! There are many sufferings from trauma related to a bad relationship, bullying or past abuse. Again, you are not alone! Have you been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or ADHD and have been struggling to manage your symptoms? I am here to help. Regardless of age or diagnosis everyone deserves peace of mind and a little understanding. I believe everyone deserves compassionate and empathetic mental health care. Let me help you.
(475) 264-4768 View (475) 264-4768
Photo of BE VEry Resilient, L.L.C., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
BE VEry Resilient, L.L.C.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Haven, CT 06473
The mission of BE VEry Resilient is to foster resilience by encouraging, uplifting, restoring, and renewing emotional strength, promoting balanced and stable emotions. Our goal for each individual is to cultivate therapeutic skills that enhance mental well-being and empower effective management of daily challenges. Sheneese, the owner/founder of BE VEry Resilient, brings over 10 years of experience in the nursing field, with a significant focus on mental health. Having practiced as a mental health provider in community outpatient settings, Sheneese has dedicated her career to supporting adults from diverse backgrounds.
The mission of BE VEry Resilient is to foster resilience by encouraging, uplifting, restoring, and renewing emotional strength, promoting balanced and stable emotions. Our goal for each individual is to cultivate therapeutic skills that enhance mental well-being and empower effective management of daily challenges. Sheneese, the owner/founder of BE VEry Resilient, brings over 10 years of experience in the nursing field, with a significant focus on mental health. Having practiced as a mental health provider in community outpatient settings, Sheneese has dedicated her career to supporting adults from diverse backgrounds.
(203) 350-7077 View (203) 350-7077
Photo of Omolola Aragbada, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Branford, CT
Omolola Aragbada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSNPH
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06510
Hi there, I'm Lola. Are you looking for a provider who makes you feel comfortable enough to reflect and express yourself as you wish? Do you need a provider who listens actively to your concerns? Are you seeking a participatory treatment where you can contribute to your individualized treatment plan?
Hi there, I'm Lola. Are you looking for a provider who makes you feel comfortable enough to reflect and express yourself as you wish? Do you need a provider who listens actively to your concerns? Are you seeking a participatory treatment where you can contribute to your individualized treatment plan?
(203) 718-0672 View (203) 718-0672
Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.